Africa-Press – Eswatini. Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini has called on health suppliers to join hands with government in transforming Eswatini’s health system, declaring that the persistent shortage of essential drugs is a national crisis that must be eradicated.
The meeting, held on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, at the Cabinet Offices, brought together key players in the health supply chain, from pharmaceutical providers to medical equipment suppliers, catering and security service providers.
The PM stated that the country’s healthcare system cannot thrive without strategic partnerships grounded in trust, innovation, and accountability.
From Crisis to Legacy
Addressing suppliers, Dlamini made it clear that government is not merely seeking tenders but lasting partnerships.
“We have declared the shortage of essential drugs a national crisis. It is unacceptable. We are taking decisive action, and we invite you to the planning table to help us find lasting solutions. Let us end this problem together. We are not inviting you to bid for tenders, we are inviting you to build a legacy of health and wellbeing for all emaSwati,” he said.
The Premier outlined government’s ‘Nkwe’ mandate, which shifts focus from reactive healthcare to proactive prevention.
This includes first-class infrastructure, technology-driven solutions, and reforms such as restructuring the Central Medical Stores into a parastatal, adopting electronic health management systems, and enforcing zero tolerance on corruption.
Suppliers were urged to report unethical practices directly to his office, the Anti-Corruption Commission, or law enforcement.
Suppliers Unite for Solutions
Suppliers, through their newly introduced association, welcomed government’s openness and pledged to work as a unified voice. They acknowledged challenges such as delayed payments and supply chain bottlenecks, but also proposed solutions including:
• Strengthened inventory and information management systems at facility level.
• Robust forecasting of medical needs.
• Integrity of processes and adherence to payment per invoice.
• Support for transforming the Central Medical Stores into a semi-autonomous body.
They assured the PM of their commitment to help shape a sustainable healthcare system for Eswatini.
A Call for Collective Action
The PM’s message was clear: government and suppliers must walk the journey together.
“Suppliers are not beggars. We want timely payments on our side and timely delivery on yours. This relationship must be built on trust and mutual commitment,” he stressed.
With this renewed partnership, both government and health suppliers are poised to rewrite the story of Eswatini’s healthcare, moving from crisis management to proactive excellence.
The PM’s rallying call is not just about solving immediate shortages, but about laying the foundation for a world-class health system that guarantees quality care for every Liswati.
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